Upside-Down Plum Cake Recipe

This Upside-Down Plum Cake is the ultimate easy dessert, perfect for when plums are at their peak ripeness! With a quick prep and just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a beautiful, golden cake with sweet-tart plums caramelized on top. This recipe is perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers alike, delivering a flavorful, visually stunning dessert with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love Upside-Down Plum Cake

• This cake is incredibly easy to make, requiring only a few basic ingredients and minimal prep time.
• The fresh plums add a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness, making every bite juicy and flavorful.
• It has a beautiful presentation with plums caramelized on top, making it a show-stopping dessert for any occasion.
• The texture is light and fluffy, with a moist crumb that pairs perfectly with the soft plums.
• This recipe is versatile and adaptable to other fruits, so you can enjoy it year-round with whatever is in season.

This upside-down plum cake recipe is really easy to make and so delicious! All you need to do is slice the plums, layer them on the bottom of the baking dish, pour the batter on top and bake. When plums are in season, this recipe should be a must to make!

Ingredients:

• 8 plums – Fresh and juicy, they bring a sweet and slightly tart flavor, perfect for an upside-down cake.
• 3 eggs – Provides structure and helps create a light, airy cake texture.
• 1 cup sugar – Adds sweetness to balance the tartness of the plums.
• 1/2 stick (4 tbsp) of butter, melted – Adds richness and keeps the cake moist.
• 1 cup flour – Forms the base of the cake batter, giving it structure.
• 1 tsp baking powder – Helps the cake rise and creates a soft, fluffy texture.

For a printable card of the ingredients, check out the recipe card at the end of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Upside-Down Plum Cake

• 9-Inch Non-Stick Baking Dish – Ensures the cake releases easily and bakes evenly.
• Large Mixing Bowl – Perfect for combining the batter ingredients.
• Whisk – Used to beat the eggs and mix ingredients smoothly.
• Spatula – Helps to spread the batter evenly over the plums and scrape down the bowl.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons – Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.

Directions:

Preheat oven to 375 F.

Slice the plums and discard the pits.  Put the plums on the bottom of the non-stick 9-inch baking dish.

In a large bowl, whisk the eggs.  Add sugar and mix.  Add butter and mix.   Add the flour and baking powder and stir until combined.

Pour the batter on top of the plums.

Put the baking dish in the oven.  Bake for 35 minutes.

When slicing the cake, invert the slices upside down, so the plums are on top.  Alternatively, you can invert the whole cake first on the plate and then slice it.  I prefer inverting individual slices with a spatula as opposed to maneuvering the whole cake.

Note: the plums have sour notes, and I like it this way :)  If you’d rather have it sweet, you can sprinkle the layer of plums with an extra 1/4 cup of sugar before pouring the batter on top.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to add a creamy contrast to the fruity flavors.
• Drizzle a bit of honey or apple sauce over the top for extra sweetness and visual appeal.
• Pair this cake with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a cozy treat.
• For a fresh garnish, sprinkle a few chopped nuts, like toasted almonds or pistachio, on each slice just before serving.
• Serve as a lovely dessert for brunch, family gatherings, or afternoon tea for a delightful finish to any meal.

Tips For Success

• Choose Ripe Plums: For the best flavor, select ripe but firm plums. They should give slightly to the touch, which means they’re juicy and sweet with just the right amount of tartness. Overripe plums may release too much juice, making the cake soggy.
• Arrange Plums Evenly: When you place the plum slices in the baking dish, arrange them in an even layer, slightly overlapping if necessary. This will ensure every slice of cake has a beautiful, fruity topping.
• Mix Batter Until Just Combined: When stirring in the flour and baking powder, mix only until everything is just incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture rather than the light, fluffy crumb you want.
• Bake Until Golden and Firm: To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the cake is ready. Baking times can vary, so keep an eye on the cake during the last few minutes.
• Invert with Care: If you’re flipping the whole cake onto a plate, let it cool slightly in the pan for a few minutes before inverting. Run a knife along the edges to help release it, then place a plate over the pan and flip quickly yet carefully to avoid breaking the cake.
• Add Extra Sweetness if Desired: The plums will have a slightly tart flavor. If you prefer a sweeter taste, sprinkle ¼ cup of sugar over the plums before adding the batter.

Variations and Substitutions

• Fruit Options: If plums aren’t available or you want to try something different, substitute with peaches, apricots, or even pineapple slices for a similar effect. Each fruit will bring its unique flavor, but the baking method remains the same.
• Gluten-Free Option: To make this cake gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour. Be sure the blend contains xanthan gum or a similar binding agent to help with texture.
• Vegan Adaptation: Replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water per egg), and swap the butter with a plant-based alternative. This will result in a slightly denser cake but still delicious!
• Extra Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor that complements the fruit beautifully. You could also sprinkle a bit of cinnamon on the plums before adding the batter.
• Nuts for Crunch: Add a handful of chopped nuts, like walnuts or almonds, to the batter for a bit of crunch. Nuts can also be sprinkled over the plums before pouring the batter, giving a toasted flavor and extra texture.
• Reduced Sugar: For a less sweet option, reduce the sugar in the batter to ¾ cup. The natural sugars from the plums will still give a nice balance, especially if you enjoy a less-sweet dessert.

Storage and Reheating

• Storing: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to keep it longer, place the container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: This cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Reheating: For a warm slice, microwave a piece for 10-15 seconds on medium heat. Alternatively, you can reheat slices in the oven at 300°F for about 5-7 minutes, which will maintain a better texture than microwaving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned or frozen plums instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use canned or frozen plums if fresh ones aren’t available. Be sure to drain canned plums well, as excess liquid could make the cake soggy. If using frozen plums, let them thaw and pat them dry before arranging in the baking dish.

What can I do if my cake sticks to the pan?

To prevent sticking, use a non-stick baking dish or line the bottom with parchment paper. If it still sticks, run a knife around the edges to loosen it, and try inverting it onto a plate. You can also gently tap the bottom of the pan to help release the cake.

Can I make this cake in advance?

Absolutely! This cake can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop. Just bring it to room temperature or reheat slightly before serving.

What should I do if my cake is too moist or soggy?

If the cake seems too moist, it might be from overly juicy or very ripe plums. Next time, pat the fruit dry before arranging in the baking dish. Also, check your baking time to ensure it’s fully baked in the center.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

The cake is done when it’s golden on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few crumbs. It should spring back lightly when touched. Baking times may vary, so check a few minutes before the end of the baking time.

Other Easy Plum Recipes

Air Fryer Roasted Plum Dessert: This easy air fryer dessert highlights juicy plums caramelized to perfection for a quick, fruity treat.

Simple Homemade Plum Pie: Enjoy the flavors of summer with this classic, homemade plum pie featuring a flaky crust and sweet plum filling.

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• Easy Chocolate Cherry Cake with Cake Mix
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